Board moves: Kerry Sanderson, Jim McGinty

St John of God Health Care has announced state governor Kerry Sanderson as its new chair, while former Western Australian politician Jim McGinty has been appointed as chairman of not-for-profit community service provider Communicare.

Ms Sanderson will replace outgoing chair Tony Howarth, who has served in the role for 14 years, in May.

Mr Howarth retired from his role as chair of marine services company MMA Offshore in September last year after a major shareholder called for his resignation.

He is still a non-executive director at Wesfarmers, along with BWP Trust and Rugby WA.

Ms Sanderson has extensive experience in business and public service, and is set to conclude a three-and-a-half year term as governor soon.

She previously served on the St John of God board from 2012 until 2014.

St John chairman of trustees Eva Skira said Ms Sanderson was ideally suited to the role.

“Kerry has excellent credentials to lead our organisation as we continue in our Mission to offer hospitality, hope and healing through the care we provide,” he said

“She has an impeccable record for service to the community at the most senior levels in Western Australia.”

The news comes three months after long serving chief executive Michael Stanford resigned to pursue a non-executive career, starting with the ASX-listed competitor Healthscope.

Ms Sanderson said she was looking forward to working with the St John of God Health Care trustees and board, and the incoming group chief executive.

“St John of God Health Care is an iconic healthcare institution with a long tradition and I’m delighted to be returning to the board as chair,” she said.

Meanwhile Communicare has announced Mr McGinty as its new chairman, replacing acting chair since June Shelena Serrano.

Mr McGinty was an Labor party member of the WA Legislative Assembly from 1990 to 2009, representing the district of Fremantle, and led the opposition from 1994 to 1996.

We are delighted to attract someone of Jim’s calibre as chair of our board,” chief executive Melissa Perry said

“Jim has an incredible reputation as one of Labor’s great reformers, and we are honoured that he has agreed to join the Communicare team in this important role.”

Mr McGinty currently serves on the boards of Access Housing Australia and Brightwater Care.